Rhetoric & Writing at SUNY College at Potsdam

Potsdam, NY · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
18 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
19
Optimistic
18
Base Case
16
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,455/yr (-31% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI 12.0x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #102 of 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs

Program Analysis

The financial data for this program reflects the challenges of a writing-focused degree in a smaller, rural labor market like Potsdam. While national averages for Rhetoric and Composition graduates show strong potential in technical writing or editing, securing those roles often requires relocating to urban centers or areas with robust tech and publishing industries. This can delay initial career acceleration and salary growth as you establish yourself elsewhere, as local opportunities for these specialized roles are limited. The program likely provides a strong foundation in critical thinking and communication, but you'll need to be exceptionally proactive in building a professional portfolio and seeking internships *outside* the immediate region to access higher-paying opportunities. Consider a complementary minor or early networking to bridge the gap between academic skills and specific industry demands, especially given the evolving landscape of AI in writing professions.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Rhetoric & Writing graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $407K $419K $410K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.7x 12.0x 11.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.5x 5.6x 5.5x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 42% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 19 18 16

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$34,848
Out-of-state: $74,488 (5.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$57,180
-64% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
15.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$29,477
44% growth from Year 1

About SUNY College at Potsdam

A 85% acceptance rate means SUNY College at Potsdam is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 1,951 in Potsdam, NY. Pell Grant recipients make up 43% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at SUNY College at Potsdam →

Top Career Paths

Technical writers $91,670/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Rhetoric & Writing at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does SUNY College at Potsdam's Rhetoric & Writing program score?
This program scores 18/100 — on the lower end for Rhetoric & Writing. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do SUNY College at Potsdam Rhetoric & Writing graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.3x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Rhetoric & Writing to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Rhetoric & Writing careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 62% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Rhetoric & Writing earnings lower at SUNY College at Potsdam?
Lower starting pay at SUNY College at Potsdam may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →